Uttarakhand register historic win at Assam’s home-ground in Ranji Trophy:Crush Assam by an innings 42 runs, captain Chandela slams maiden double-ton

In the Ranji Trophy 2025-26, the Uttarakhand team has once again created history. By handing Assam a crushing defeat by an innings and 42 runs at their home ground, Abhimanyu Cricket Academy, the team has secured a spot in the quarter-finals for the 4th time. This victory became even more memorable because the team’s captain, Kunal Chandela, scored his first double century (207 runs) of his first-class career in this very match. With this spectacular victory, Uttarakhand has strengthened its position in Group C. Under the guidance of coach Manish Jha and the captaincy of Kunal Chandela, the team’s performance has been outstanding throughout the season. Turning Point of the Match: Chandela’s Bat and Mayank’s Spin Uttarakhand won the toss and decided to bat first, which proved to be a masterstroke. Captain’s marathon knock: Kunal Chandela scored 207 runs off 297 balls (15 fours, 6 sixes). Lakshya Rai Chandani (86) and Bhupen Lalwani (52) ably supported him. Uttarakhand declared their innings at 460/7. Assam’s surrender: In response, the Assam team was bowled out for just 140 runs in the first innings. Playing the follow-on, they could only score 278 runs in the second innings. Bowlers’ havoc: Spinners Mayank Mishra and Suchit J did not allow Assam’s batsmen to settle. In the first innings, Aditya Rawat also took 3 wickets. From the Streets of Delhi to Uttarakhand’s Captaincy Kunal Chandela’s (31) journey is no less than a cinematic story. Delhi Connection: Made his Ranji debut for Delhi in 2017. Played there until 2020, but did not get big opportunities. Rise in Uttarakhand: Joined the Uttarakhand team in 2021-22 and became a key batsman. Captain’s knock: Received captaincy in 2025-26 and scored his career’s first double century (207 runs) against Assam, leading the team to the knockout stage. Coach’s report card: 6 years, 4 nnockouts Head coach Manish Jha plays a crucial role behind Uttarakhand’s success. He has been with the team for the last 6 years. Record: In his 6 years tenure, the team has reached the knockout stage (quarter-finals) 4 times. Experience: Manish Jha has previously coached Manipur, Services, and Delhi U-23. International Experience: He has been the consultant coach for the Nepal Senior Women’s team, which, under his guidance, qualified for the World Cup Global Qualifiers for the first time. He is currently also associated with NCA (Bengaluru). Uttarakhand’s Ranji journey: When did they reach the Quarter-finals? Uttarakhand joined the Ranji Trophy in 2018. In a short journey, the team has achieved significant milestones: 2018-19: Qualified for the quarter-finals for the first time (lost to Vidarbha). 2021-22: Entered for the second time (lost to Mumbai). 2022-23: In the knockouts for the third time (lost to Karnataka). 2025-26: Now in the quarter-finals for the fourth time, with a big win over Assam.